What, a whole article on traditional shaving methods and no mention of straight razors? A straight razor does take time, care, and practice, but it produces excellent results without too much irritation. (I admit that, when I'm in a hurry, I reach for a Fusion.)
I tried double-edged safeties (the aforementioned Merkurs), and didn't like them. They produce a shave quality identical to Mach3 or Fusion, but take quite a bit longer and result in more razor burn. The blades are cheap, certainly, but if you're going down that road, why not try a straight? Think of it as an investment in the environment: no more disposable trash to clutter landfills.
I don't know if supply of razors or blades is a huge problem. classicshaving.com always seems to have everything I've ever needed.
Different things work for different people, I guess. I can't imagine what could possibly prepare my face for what the guy in the video did. If I went through it so rapidly, ignoring the grain, for 5+ passes, any razor would turn my face into a raw burger patty.
Shaving with a 5-blade Mach razor is like taking 5 passes with a single blade; the analogy is akin to driving an automatic vs. standard transmission. This is why 5-blade razors save time, and why a double-edge can give you a closer shave.
You don't burn your face as long as you re-lather with each pass, and I typically recommend pre-shave oil too. But, tThe Robert's wet method technique takes a bit of studying and practice.
Nevertheless I do agree with your first statement.. different strokes for different folks.
I tried double-edged safeties (the aforementioned Merkurs), and didn't like them. They produce a shave quality identical to Mach3 or Fusion, but take quite a bit longer and result in more razor burn. The blades are cheap, certainly, but if you're going down that road, why not try a straight? Think of it as an investment in the environment: no more disposable trash to clutter landfills.
I don't know if supply of razors or blades is a huge problem. classicshaving.com always seems to have everything I've ever needed.